Harrisburg Rental Market...

[Kevin Cieslukowski]

Hello...I grew up in Dillsburg PA.  I've always enjoyed the Harrisburg skyline crossing the George Wade Bridge (especially at night) but never really spent any time downtown.  I've been on 2nd Street once or twice and to Appalachian Brewing Company.  And of course the Farm Show Complex.  

What I want to know is what is a person who wants to live in Harrisburg looking for in a rental?  I see the prices range from $800-1500.  What are their needs/wants/desires.  The prices are right for me to buy in Hburg and then rent.  But I am hesitant to add one more rental to the market?  

Currently I am in San Diego but my parents just moved to Harrisburg (behind the Harrisburg East Mall).  I am a structural engineer licensed in New York so I am really fascinated by some of the old architecture and the brick duplexes.  It would be fun to renovate one of these buildings.  

I have no properties at this time.  But my goal is to buy one this year.  

Thanks!!!

[Travis Wylie]

Hello @Jr Trotta! What you're describing (BRRRR or Flip/Hold) can be very profitable. Section 8 in certain areas cold be very profitable too. For me personally, I don't think it's worth the headache in Harrisburg area. The section 8 rental rates are comparable to market rates, where other areas (i.e. Baltimore) seem to pay more of a premium in section 8. It's all personal preference really. The whole guaranteed rent thing sounds great but then every year come inspection time you may have to drop some money to get it section 8 approved. There you are at the mercy of the inspector.